The Gulf Harbour ferry service has returned to a full schedule starting on Monday after years of cancellations and fewer sailings. In the past, there were crew shortages that forced many commuters to use long replacement buses or taxis to travel 50km from Auckland’s central area to the Whangaparāoa peninsula. Last year, Auckland Transport even suggested ending the service, which upset the community and led to a petition to keep it.
On Monday morning, the weather was beautiful in Auckland, and local commuter Geet Vashisth expressed relief, saying it only takes 45 minutes to reach the city by ferry. Another commuter, Kathy, also voiced her support for the service, noting that the long drive during peak traffic is difficult. However, she worried that the new schedule of 24 trips a day may be too ambitious.
The new schedule includes morning departures from Gulf Harbour at 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, and 8:30. Previously, there were only 2 to 3 sailings per day. A one-way ticket costs $11.80 for adults and $6.30 for children using a hopcard. Some commuters were confused by the new timetable, missing the 7:45 sailing and realizing too late that it was no longer available.
Although locals were happy to see the ferry service back, not many people used it on the first day, with only 15 to 20 passengers boarding during peak hours. Albany ward councillor John Watson noted that it would take time to rebuild ridership, which had previously been as high as 18,000 boardings a month.
Auckland Transport’s public transport manager, Duncan McGrory, stated that they worked closely with their contractor, Fullers360, to ensure enough staff were available. He expected more passengers to use the ferry from Tuesday, as the beginning of the week is usually slower for public transport.
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